

eComFuel
Andrew Youderian | e-Commerce Entrepreneur
Looking for detailed information from top experts on researching, launching and growing your online eCommerce business? Look no further. Join your host Andrew Youderian, an experienced eCommerce entrepreneur, each week as he pulls aside some of the industry's top experts to give you down to earth, actionable advice served up with a side of comic relief. Learn from the masters how to turn your 'make money online' attempt into a profitable, growing online store. Get show notes, in-depth eCommerce Fuel posts and your free copy of Andrew's highly reviewed 55-page eCommerce guide at eCommercefuel.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Aug 30, 2024 • 59min
Google vs. Perplexity, AI’s Impact on Kids & Tuning Custom Models
Kevin Williams, an expert from MadBrains AI with extensive experience in eCommerce and AI innovations, dives into the future of search and the fascinating blend of AI with child-rearing. He shares insights on fine-tuning AI models for business, emphasizing their transformative potential in customer service and operational efficiency. The discussion also touches on the rise of Perplexity, which challenges Google’s search dominance, and the importance of AI literacy in the workforce, urging a shift in how businesses interact with technology.

Aug 23, 2024 • 35min
LATAM Teams, USA Manufacturing and $19M Days
This chat features Johnathan Solorzano, owner of Solo Media Group and a Shopify development expert known for managing major brands like Kanye West’s Yeezy. He shares secrets behind achieving record-breaking sales days, including a jaw-dropping $19 million day. Johnathan discusses building diverse teams in Latin America and the advantages of U.S. manufacturing. He also delves into mastering email marketing, utilizing data-driven strategies, and navigating Shopify's newest global features to enhance international business efficiencies.

Aug 16, 2024 • 40min
Riffing on Markets, AI & Amazon with Bill D’Alessandro
Bill D'Alessandro, CEO of ElementsBrands.com, dives deep into the evolving eCommerce landscape and the powerful impact of AI. He discusses market dynamics, highlighting the current challenges in acquisitions and the struggle in the eCommerce M&A market. Bill shares insights on how AI is reshaping operations and customer engagement while reflecting on Bitcoin's role beyond price volatility. The conversation also emphasizes the importance of community among eCommerce entrepreneurs and the ongoing transformation of platforms like Amazon.

Aug 9, 2024 • 50min
From Dishwasher to $20M in Four Years
Join Santiago Roa, founder of Culiau.com, who transformed from a dishwasher to the leader of a $20 million eCommerce business. He shares his inspiring journey, navigating language barriers and financial challenges. Santiago reveals the importance of innovation with his unique engraving pen and the role of mentorship in his growth. He candidly discusses the setbacks he faced in managing people and setting goals, emphasizing that failure is part of the success story. Tune in for a masterclass in resilience and entrepreneurial spirit!

Aug 2, 2024 • 59min
Competing Effectively with Chinese Sellers
Bernie Thompson, a seasoned entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience in sourcing electronics from China and founder of Pluggable and PPC Ninja, shares his insights on the competitive landscape of eCommerce. He discusses the dominance of Chinese sellers on Amazon, highlighting their strategic advantages and the regulatory challenges faced by Western businesses. Bernie emphasizes the need for innovation, strong consumer trust, and effective use of intellectual property. He also explores the significance of community support and diverse manufacturing as essential strategies for success.

Jul 26, 2024 • 50min
Failing to Retire, USA Manufacturing & Why Entrepreneurship Ed. is Broken
Greg Shugar, CEO of Beau Ties of Vermont, shares his journey from early retirement to entrepreneurship, managing a remote business, importance of USA manufacturing, teaching entrepreneurship, and challenges of post-business ownership.

Jul 19, 2024 • 1h 7min
TikTok Shops and the Power of Radical Focus
Paul Jauregui, Co-founder of BK Beauty, shares insights on skyrocketing growth through TikTok, discussing SKU selection, the halo effect, and balancing business with family adventures. Topics include managing a booming business, leveraging TikTok for success, hero SKU focus, product sampling, discounting strategies, and navigating the TikTok landscape. The podcast explores the impact of TikTok exposure, optimizing conversions, and generating engagement in e-commerce.

Jul 12, 2024 • 23min
5 Powerful Tax Mindset Shifts to Keep More of What You Make
Explore the psychology of taxes and how they impact business decisions. Learn about effective tax planning, childhood entrepreneurial ventures that taught financial responsibility, and strategies to maximize earnings by understanding tax implications. Discover mindset shifts for tax management and how to balance business success with personal life while minimizing tax obligations.

Jul 5, 2024 • 39min
Turning a Fast Growing & Unprofitable Company into a High Margin Cash Machine
Michelle Huie, founder of VIM & VIGR, shares her journey of turning her struggling eCommerce business into a profitable venture by restructuring operations, focusing on SEO, and targeting lucrative market segments. She highlights reducing trade show reliance, increasing direct consumer interactions, and leveraging content creation for revenue generation. The episode also touches on challenges in sales tax remittance, testifying in front of Congress, and the impactful role of joining an e-commerce community.

Jun 28, 2024 • 48min
Private Equity Acquired and Botched Her Business. So She Bought it Back.
How often do entrepreneurs get a second chance with their first love? In this episode, join me as I converse with Cathryn Lavery, the founder of BestSelf Co., who navigated the unusual path of selling her business to a private equity firm, only to buy it back after seeing its potential falter under new management. Cathryn shares her initial reasons for selling, the insights from stepping away, and what drove her to reclaim control and re-inject her vision into the brand. Listen in as Cathryn discusses the strategic maneuvers and negotiations involved in reacquiring her company, how she leveraged AI technology to streamline operations, and the lessons learned from viewing her business through the analytical lens of her buyers. She also dives into the tactical changes implemented post-acquisition to revitalize the brand, ensuring its alignment with her entrepreneurial spirit and long-term objectives. You can find show notes and more information by clicking here: https://bit.ly/3VwTEd9 Interested in our Private Community for 7-Figure Store Owners? Learn more here. Want to hear about new episodes and eCommerce news round-ups? Subscribe via email.